THE EFFORTS of a devoted care home worker were recognised when she received a prestigious award recently.

During her time at Darlington’s Willow Green Care Home, activities coordinator Nicola Laycock has led staff and residents in a number of fun adventures.

Ms Laycock has spent three years encouraging the home’s residents to join in with a variety of unusual activities, from recording a Christmas CD to transforming the home into a seaside paradise and regularly raising money for charity.

Her dedication to the role was recognised this month at the Great North East Care Awards 2015.

At a ceremony hosted by The Hilton in Gateshead, Ms Laycock was presented with the Care Home Activity Organiser Award.

The award recognised her positivity and enthusiasm, with judges’ comments saying: “Nicola’s enthusiasm for her role is truly inspiring.

“She is a naturally caring individual and her mission is to help residents achieve things that they never thought possible.

“Her view is that the best is yet to come and this positive attitude must be such a boost to the residents she supports.”

The home’s deputy manager, Zelda Nettleton, echoed the judges’ sentiments in congratulating Ms Laycock and two other colleagues – Natasha Kieran and Richard Maddison - who were nominated for awards.

She said: “Nicola was nominated by her manager for her dedication and commitment that every person coming into our centre experiences.

“She is always saying the best is yet to come and she goes out of her way to make sure all of our service users enjoy full quality of life – she goes above and beyond.”

Ms Laycock will now join other winners of the Great North East Care Awards into going to the finals of the Great British Care Awards, taking place in Birmingham in spring 2016.

Sean Turner, Director of The Great British Care Awards, said: "The Great British Care Awards are now in their seventh year and are continuing to go from strength to strength.

“We never cease to be amazed with the quality of nominations and this year is no exception.

“The evening was a true celebration for the unsung heroes of social care, without whom quality care provision in our communities would fail."

The owners of Willow Green Care Home - St Martins Care - expressed their pride and congratulated all nominated staff.